Escalating Insecurity in Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu Orders Rescue of Abducted Female Students

Escalating Insecurity in Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu Orders Rescue of Abducted Female Students

Escalating Abductions at Federal University Gusau

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has ordered immediate action by security agencies to rescue the remaining abducted female students from the Federal University Gusau in Zamfara State. This directive comes on the heels of a recent incident in which armed bandits invaded the school’s hostels and kidnapped several students. Notably, this is the third such incident to occur at the university within the past five months, exacerbating the already severe insecurity in a region notorious for frequent terrorist activities.

During the same period, over 80 youths were also kidnapped in Wanzamai village in Zamfara while collecting firewood, further underscoring the prevalent lawlessness and insecurity in the region.

No-Fly Zone Ineffectiveness and Continued Abductions

Despite the existence of a no-fly zone over volatile areas imposed by former President Muhammadu Buhari, abductions persist. Back in February 2021, 279 female students aged between 10 and 17 were kidnapped from the Government Girls Science Secondary School in Jangebe, Zamfara, a stark reminder of the worsening security situation.

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Rescue Operations and the Current Situation

During the recent abduction at the university, the Nigerian army engaged the terrorists, managing to rescue six female students. However, over 20 students are still held captive. The sheer number of students still in custody underscores the enormity of the situation and the urgency required in rescue operations.

Presidential Response to the Ongoing Crisis

In a statement, President Tinubu condemned the heinous act and empathized with the affected families. He assured them of his administration’s commitment to securing the release of the abducted students and protecting all Nigerian citizens. The President also pledged the federal government’s commitment to transforming educational institutions into safe havens for knowledge, growth, and opportunity, devoid of the threat of terrorism.

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Conclusion: A Call to Action

The escalating security situation in Nigeria is a cause for concern that demands swift and effective action. The recent directive from President Tinubu to rescue the abducted students is a step in the right direction. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the root causes of this insecurity to ensure that educational institutions remain sanctuaries for learning, free from the menace of terrorism and banditry.

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